Policewoman's 'shock' at MBEExclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea
police station's Pam Whitehead has been awarded an MBE in the
Queen's New Year Honours List. Pam, 57, has been given the award
in recognition of her services to Avon and Somerset Constabulary
over more than 30 years. She has been a front desk
advisor at Burnham Police Station. More...

Arthur is world's oldest triathleteA NINETY year-old Burnham-On-Sea
pensioner has this week been named the worlds oldest triathlete.
Arthur Gilbert, who lives in Berrow Road, has been handed the
title by The World Records Academy, having completed his 40th
triathlon earlier this year. The pensioner was awarded an MBE
for his charity work. More...

Motorist's car seized by policeExclusive: A
20 year-old man's car was seized by police in Burnham-On-Sea on
Christmas Eve after it was allegedly seen being driving dangerously
in the town centre. Officers pulled over the motorist at 10.30pm
outside the Somerset and Dorset pub and seized his
car. More...

Tourist centre team celebrates
VOLUNTEERS at Burnham-On-Sea's tourist information centre have
celebrated a busy year for the group. Over 20 volunteers from
BIARS (Burnham Information and Rescue Support), who run the centre,
were joined by Burnham's Mayor, Michael Clarke, for a party.
More...

Xmas
charity concert preview
A FUNDRAISING Christmas concert is to be held in Burnham-On-Sea's
Princess Theatre on Friday (December 30th). Highbridge's Gospel
Tabernacle Church is organising the concert, which is called 'The
Reason for Christmas'. Entry will be free with donations for charity.
More...

Police
alert over car break-insExclusive: POLICE have this week warned motorists in Burnham-On-Sea
and Highbridge to step up their security after four break-ins
during the past 24 hours. Burnham Police are investigating a spate
of thefts and break-ins in Highbridge - and they have urged motorists
to ensure valuables are not left on show. More...

Seal
washed up on beach
A SEAL was washed up on Berrow beach today (Thursday December
29th), but sadly nothing could be done to save it. The body of
the young mammal was washed ashore in on the morning high tide
between Berrow's shipwreck and Burnham's beach lighthouse. More...

Rubbish
collections delayedCOLLECTIONS of rubbish and recycling will take
place one day later this week and next week due to the Christmas
and New Year holidays, says Somerset Waste Partnership. Friday's
collection in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge will go ahead on Saturday
31st December. More...

Where
to celebrate New Year
REVELLERS
in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge will be able to celebrate the
start of 2012 in style with a great line-up of entertainment being
planned for New Year's Eve. Live music, fundraising events and
parties are among the events being scheduled.
More...

£20m
wildlife plans unveiledExclusive: A MAJOR planning application
has been formally submitted by the Environment Agency this week
which involves 488 acres of coastline near Burnham-On-Sea being
transformed into a huge new wildlife habitat. The proposals would
see a large area of land on the Steart Peninsula being flooded
to create a huge new wetlands site. More...

Hit
film to boost arts festivalTICKETS have gone on sale this week for a fundraising
movie screening in aid of Highbridge Festival Of The Arts. The
Ritz Cinema in Burnham's Victoria Street is to hold an afternoon
screening of the critically-acclaimed Mamma Mia starring
Meryl Streep. More...

Nursery
enjoys Xmas trip25 youngsters from Burnham-On-Sea's Rose Cottage
Farm Children's Nursery enjoyed a special visit to see Father
Christmas. The excited group visited Sanders Garden World, where
they visited Santa's Wonderland and had a special tea with Father
Christmas and his elf. More...

New
car wash opens in townA NEW car washing business has opened for the first
time in Burnham-On-Sea town centre this week. Burnham Hand Car
Wash is operating from the former private car park at the rear
of Morrisons supermarket in Pier Street and is offering customers
a special offer. More...

'Pitiful'
fly-tip fines attackedExclusive: AN angry Highbridge councillor
has this week attacked the 'pitiful' fines being given to illegal
fly tippers. Cllr Joe Leach has hit out at Sedgemoor District
Council's portfolio holder for the Environment, Councillor Richard
Burden, after 50 fines of £50 each were issued. More...

Police
hunt for arsonistsBURNHAM-On-Sea
police have today confirmed that they are treating an early morning
blaze at this home in Highbridge as arson. "Police are appealing
for witnesses and information following an arson at a home on
the Poplar Estate, which occurred at around 2.45am on Tuesday,"
they confirmed.More...

Tributes
paid to Gerry, 92
TRIBUTES have this week been paid to the President of Burnham-On-Sea
Chamber of Trade, who has sadly passed away. Gerry Germain, pictured,
died over Christmas following a two-year battle with lung cancer.
Gerry, 92, was a well-known face about Burnham, having run the
town's Castle Antiques shop.More...

Local
train fares set to rise
TRAIN fares from Burnham and Highbridge Railway Station are set
to increase next week. First Great Western has announced an increase
in all its ticket prices from January 2nd. Burnham to London Paddington
tickets will rise by just over five per cent from January.More...

MP
backs calls to ban circusesBURNHAM-On-Sea's MP Tessa Munt has this week joined
campaigners from Animal Defenders International in urging the
government to ban circuses in the UK which use wild animals. Her
comments come after an important Austrian EU judgement on the
matter last week.More...

Festive
trade boost for townExclusive: FIRMS along Burnham-On-Sea High
Street experienced mixed trade during the run-up to Christmas
- with some reporting their best-ever business. While some shops
in the town failed to benefit from a seasonal uplift due to the
continuing recession, others have seen booming business.More...

Asda
delivers £2k Xmas boost BURNHAM-On-Sea's rescue hovercraft charity has
been handed a £2,000 Christmas boost by supermarket giant
Asda. Eight months of fundraising at the Highbridge store has
raised £2,087 for Burnham Area Rescue Boat, which is one
of its charities of the year.More...

Probe
into overnight blazeBURNHAM-On-Sea
fire and police crews are investigating the cause of a fire which
spread through a home in Highbridge earlier today (Tuesday, December
27th). Three fire engines from Burnham and Bridgwater were sent
to the Poplar Estate at 2.51am.More...

Warm
homes funding boostBURNHAM-On-Sea
residents living in cold houses or struggling with heating bills
will benefit this winter from a £190,000 Government grant
to Somerset County Council. The councils Warm Homes project
successfully bid for the grant from the Department of Health.More...

Brrr-acing
sea dip is planned!A GROUP of brave fundraisers in Burnham-On-Sea
will dash into the sea during a sponsored dip on the town's beach
on the first day of 2012. Local charity BARB will benefit from
the event, which is scheduled to start at 12 noon on Sunday (January
1st) next to the town's jetty.More...

Christmas
Day beach rescueCOASTGUARDS from Burnham-On-Sea were called out
to help a beach walker in difficulty this morning (Christmas Day).
Weston and Burnham Coastguard teams were paged at 11.15am after
a man was reported to be stuck in the mud on the beach by Weston's
Grand Pier.More...

Happy
Xmas to all readersBURNHAM-On-Sea.com
wishes a very merry Christmas to all its readers and supporters.
We thank our readers, advertisers, forum users and contributors
for their support over the past year and hope that you enjoy a
happy and safe Christmas. We look forward to a busy year
ahead for the Burnham area in 2012. More...

Jo
celebrates very special XmasExclusive:
A Burnham-On-Sea cancer sufferer is celebrating a very special
Christmas with her family after receiving a life-saving bone marrow
transplant. Jo Burridge-Clayton has just returned home from Bristol
Hospital to be home with her family in Burnham over the festive
period.More...

Vandalism
in Manor GardensVANDALS
pushed over lamp posts, smashed several windows and set fire to
a rubbish bin during a night of vandalism at Burnham's Manor Gardens
last night (Friday, December 23rd). Police and fire crews were
called to the gardens at 10.30pm following the damage, caused
by a group of young people.More...

Dreamscheme
in good voiceBURNHAM-On-Sea's
Dreamscheme entertained the crowds at the town's Christmas Farmers
Market on Friday (December 23rd). The group of youngsters sang
a line-up of modern and traditional songs next to the market stalls
set up in the High Street, as pictured.More...

Crews
rush to Knoll kitchen fireFIRE
crews from Burnham-On-Sea, Weston and Bridgwater were called to
a kitchen fire in Brent Knoll on Friday evening (December 23rd).
Three fire engines and a water carrier were sent to a property
in Burton Row, Brent Knoll at 6.54pm after a resident reported
an oven was on fire in their kitchen.More...

Drink
drive checks stepped upPOLICE
have warned that there will be no let-up in their campaign to
keep drink and drug drivers off the roads of the Burnham-On-Sea
area this Christmas and New Year. Officers will continue to make
stop checks of vehicles and target hotspots during peak times.More...

Winning
Xmas displays namedTHE
winners of Burnham and Highbridge's annual Christmas lights competition
were announced on Friday (December 23rd). Town councillors Ken
Smout, Dennis Davey, Pat Burge and Tom Nicholls have visited dozens
of displays across the towns this week before picking the winners.
More...

Wind
farm firm welcomes pollTHE
developers of the proposed new wind farm at Rooksbridge, near
Burnham-On-Sea, have this week welcomed a nationwide poll which
shows 56 per cent of the British public support the expansion
of wind energy, compared to only 19 per cent who are opposed.
More...

Appeal
to identify war soldierA
GROUP of Burnham-On-Sea history researchers is seeking help in
identifying this wartime resident who died during the First World
War. St Andrew's Church is working on a project to identify a
number of photographs of Burnham men whose names appear on the
town's War Memorial in the remembrance garden.More...

MP
calls for youth cuts rethinkBURNHAM-On-Sea
MP Tessa Munt has this week called on Somerset County Council
to reverse its decision to drastically reduce its funding for
youth services, warning that the 'damaging cuts' could face an
expensive legal challenge in the coming months.More...

Inquest
held into railway deathA
MAN who was struck dead by a passing railway train on the outskirts
of Burnham-On-Sea in July had written 28 suicide notes prior to
his death, an inquest heard this week. Martin Robert Handel, 47,
from Burnham was killed on July 24th after being hit by a train.
More...

Xmas
farmers market on FridayBURNHAM-On-Sea's
Christmas farmers market will be held in the town's High Street
this Friday (December 23rd). A wide range of festive food will
be available from over a dozen stalls set-up along The High Street
between 9am and 1pm. The market will be extended. More...

Town
police probe 'deliberate' fireBURNHAM-On-Sea
police are investigating a 'deliberate' van fire which occurred
in Highbridge last night (Wednesday, December 21st). Fire crews
from Burnham-On-Sea were called to Alexandra Court in Highbridge
Quay at 8.34pm to reports of a blazing van in the car park. More...

Stolen
plaques to be replacedExclusive:
TWO bronze wartime plaques which were
stolen from a Highbridge memorial garden earlier this year are
to be replaced with granite plaques in a bid to prevent them being
removed again for their scrap metal value by thieves.
A businessman has come forward to fund the purchases. More...

Lidl
billboad plans approvedExclusive:
PLANS by supermarket Lidl to introduce a new advertisement
billboard outside its Burnham-On-Sea store have this week been
approved despite an objection from town councillors. Lidl in Oxford
Street wants to build a six metre wide billboard. More...

Rarely
seen bird on town beachA
RARELY-seen winter visitor in Burnham-On-Sea has been causing
a flap among bird watchers this week. This Snow Bunting has been
photographed on the town's beach on several days. The birds are
scarcely seen in Somerset during the winter, usually visting Scotland
and the East Coast. More...

Burnham
gymnasts strike goldMEMBERS
of Burnham-On-Sea's Monarch's Gymnastics Club have this week struck
gold at the British Acrobatic and Tumbling Open Tournament in
Stoke-On-Trent. Gymnasts Sean McKenna, Connor McKenna, Jacob Baker
and Joseph Blake returned with gold medals. More...

Burnham
cancer rates disputedExclusive: ANTI-nuclear campaigners have this week released
new research that claims women in Burnham-On-Sea have a 43% greater
risk of dying from breast cancer than in other parts of the country
- but the findings have been strongly disputed by NHS Somerset
bosses and Hinkley Point owner EDF. More...

Judging
of Xmas lights starts
JUDGING of Burnham and Highbridge's official Christmas lights
competition has been taking place this week. Deputy Mayor Ken
Smout was joined town councillors Dennis Davey, Pat Burge and
Tom Nicholls in visiting over 30 of the best displays across the
two towns. More...

Christmas
church servicesCHURCHGOERS
across the Burnham-On-Sea area are this week celebrating Christmas
at numerous services. Burnham-On-Sea.com has compiled a guide
to the main religious services
taking place across the Burnham and Highbridge area on December
24th and 25th. More...

Monday
Club's festive fun
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Monday club received a visit from the town's
Mayor this week when members celebrated Christmas with a special
meal. Cllr Michael Clarke visited the club in the Burnham Area
Youth Centre in Cassis Close and this was followed by a meal in
the Lighthouse Pub. More...

Man
hurt as vehicle flips overExclusive:
PARAMEDICS have treated a motorist for head injuries after his
vehicle flipped over on the sliproad at Burnham-On-Sea's M5 motorway
junction this evening (Tuesday). Police, fire and ambulance crews
were called to the southbound access road at 6.25pm after the
vehicle overturned. More...

Police
issue burglary warningExclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea
police have this week urged residents to be extra vigilant over
the Christmas period after burglars struck twice at the weekend.
Thieves attempted to break into a home in Rosewood Close and entered
a property in Bason Bridge. More...

£20k
overhaul for football club
BURNHAM United Football Club is this week celebrating the completion
of a £20,000 project to upgrade the facilities at its clubhouse.
The work has been jointly funded by the club and Sedgemoor District
Council, which awarded it a £12,400 grant from its RLT3
fund. More...

Crowds
enjoy lantern-lit carols
AN evening of carol singing by lantern light attracted large crowds
to Brent Knoll on Monday night (December 19th). The festive event
was held under a starlit sky next to the village green, with the
crowds' singing traditional carols and hymns accompanied by a
brass band. More...

3D
film visit for town Beavers
BURNHAM-On-Sea Beavers donned 3D glasses when they were treated
to a special visit to the town's cinema at the weekend to mark
the end of the group's 25th anniversary year and as a Christmas
treat. Over 40 youngsters and leaders visited the Ritz Cinema.
More...

Hinkley
fishing concerns raisedExclusive: SEA anglers in the Burnham area fear that work
to expand Hinkley Point power station will result in them losing
huge swathes of fishing grounds. Pete Nicholson, Chairman of the
Burnham Water Users Forum, which represents local anglers and
boat users, has raised the concerns to EDF. More...

Torch-lit
carol singing tonight
A TORCH-lit evening of carol singing will be held in the centre
of Brent Knoll this evening (Monday, December 19th) with proceeds
going to charity. The event will be held on the village green
from 7pm in aid of the Dorset and Somerset air ambulance. Harmony
Plus brass group will be joining in. More...

Town
lifeboat man steps down
AFTER 18 years involved with saving lives along Burnham-On-Sea's
coastline, Gerry Prout is retiring. Gerry was a founder member
of BARB (Burnham Area Rescue Boat) and when the RNLI returned
to Burnham in 2003, he joined them as a Deputy Launch Authority.
More...

200
gift boxes for seafarers
CHURCHGOERS from across the Burnham-On-Sea area have collected
dozens of shoeboxes full of gifts for needy seafarers. 200 Christmas
Shoe Boxes have this week been delivered to the Mission to Seafarers
in Portbury Docks, from where they will be distributed across
the world. More...

Cedric's
retiring after 29 years
PARISHIONERS in Brean have this week held a ceremony of appreciation
to thank a long-serving churchwarden for his 29 years of work.
Cedric Lodge has been a churchwarden at St Bridget's Church in
the village since 1983 and is set to retire in the New Year. More...

MP
joins BARB Xmas visitors
BURNHAM-On-Sea's MP and Mayor were among the visitors to the town's
rescue hovercraft station during a two-day Christmas fundraising
weekend. Scores of families got a chance to meet Father Christmas,
who put in an appearance at the event on the seafront on Saturday
and Sunday. More...

In
photos: Burnham Jingle Run
OVER 100 fun runners braved chilly temperatures to take part in
Burnham-On-Sea's annual 'Jingle Run' this morning (Sunday, December
18th). The popular event saw many of the runners taking part in
colourful festive costumes along the town's seafront. More...

Landmarks
to be refurbishedExclusive: MORE than £3,500 is to be spent on refurbishing
two familiar landmarks in Burnham-On-Sea to mark next year's Jubilee
celebrations. The Town Council has approved plans to overhaul
the Victorian drinking fountain in Seaview Road and the bandstand
in the Manor Gardens ahead of the Queen's Jubilee. More...

Sweet shop opens on town pier
HANDMADE gift hampers are among the products being sold at a new
confectionery shop that has opened for business at Burnham-On-Sea's
Pavilion. Louise Parkin has opened The Candy Stall at the front
of the pier's forecourt on The Esplanade. It sells locally-made
confectionery. More...

Cardboard
recycling appeal
HOUSEHOLDERS in the Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge area are being
asked not to put out too much cardboard at once with their recycling
this Christmas. The appeal comes as a quarter of all Christmas
spending is expected to take place online this year, increasing
cardboard and packaging. More...

Wurzels
aim for top chart spot!
SOMERSET cult band The Wurzels are this weekend releasing a Christmas
single to compete with the likes of X-Factor winners Little Mix
and Michael Buble for the number one spot in the festive charts.
It is a double single of 'Sleigh Ride' and 'White Christmas'.
More...

Grand
Xmas Concert tomorrow
AN evening of big band tunes is planned by Burnham and Highbridge
town band when it performs its annual festive concert on Sunday
evening (December 18th). The band's Grand Christmas Concert will
be held at Burnham's Princess Theatre and Arts Centre at 7.45pm.
More...

Chamber
backs star's campaignExclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea's Chamber Of Trade has this week
given its support to TV presenter Mary Portas' nationwide campaign
to raise the profile of high streets. Ms Portas, the star of TV
show Mary Queen of Shops, outlined almost 30 proposals to give
town centres across the UK a boost. More...

Police
warning over key safes
POLICE have this week warned residents in the Burnham area who
use key safes to be cautious following recent burglaries across
the region involving key safe break-ins. Officers have appealed
for carers, relatives and neighbours to be extra vigilant following
the burglaries. More...

Band
performs for town club
MEMBERS and supporters of Burnham's Gateway Club were entertained
to an evening of festive music from Burnham and Highbridge Town
band on Thursday evening (December 15th). The band played a programme
of Christmas songs and carols at the BAY Centre in Cassis Close.
More...

Photos:
School Challenge Day
HIGHBRIDGE'S King Alfred School held a 'Challenge Day' this week
when students were given a chance to find out more about activities
they are interested in and then learn more about them. The aim
of the event was to give students opportunities to become creative.
More...

'Heart
attack won't halt me!'Exclusive: A MEMBER of Burnham-On-Sea's Pantomime Society
has an extra special reason to look forward to the group's show
next month, having suffered a serious heart attack just four weeks
ago. Paul Wynn was rushed to Weston Hospital on November 13th.
More...

Council
objection to 95 homesExclusive: TOWN councillors last night (Thursday) raised
a formal objection over a developer's plans to build 95 new homes
on the site of a boat yard next to the River Brue in Highbridge.
The Council's Planning Applications Committee raised the concerns
at a meeting. More...

Xmas family party night in
townA FUN-packed family Christmas party night is being
held in Burnham-On-Sea this Saturday evening (December 17th).
The event at Lakeside Holiday Park will see a wide range of games,
party dances and entertainment being held for families from 6-11pm.More...

Awards night for sea cadetsBURNHAM-On-Sea Sea Cadets have been presented with
trophies, sheilds and certificates during their annual presentation
night. Eight cadets received awards for their work over the past
year at the ceremony held in their headquarters in Cassis Close,
as pictured
here.More...

300 enjoy town Xmas concert
A CAPACITY audience of more than 300 people filled Burnham-On-Sea's
St Andrew's Church on Thursday evening (December 15th) for a special
festive concert. Burnham and Highbridge Choral Society's Christmas
concert included a number of traditional and modern songs.More...

Snow for Burnham on Friday?
FORECASTERS are predicting the Burnham-On-Sea area could see a
dusting of snow during the early hours of Friday morning (December
16th). Heavy rain, progressively turning to sleet and possibly
snow, will move across the region overnight, raising the threat
of wintry weather.More...

Choral Society concert tonight
BURNHAM and Highbridge Choral Society's annual Christmas concert
will take place this evening (Thursday, December 15th) in the
town's St Andrew's Church. Starting at 7.30pm, the performance
will include a new carol compiled by one of the choir group's
members.More...

Mayor issues Xmas messageBURNHAM-On-Sea and Highbridge's Mayor, Michael
Clarke, has issued the following Christmas message to residents
of the two towns... "As Christmas fast approaches and we
prepare to celebrate this special time, I wish you all a very
happy Christmas..."More...

Burglars steal £4,000 of metalExclusive:THIEVES have stolen more than £4,000 of metal
during two burglaries in the Burnham-On-Sea area over the past
week, prompting a fresh security warning from police. A large
quantity of metal was first taken from the Viridor waste facility
in Highbridge and then from a property in East Brent.More...

Nine new homes win approvalExclusive:CONTROVERSIAL plans to build nine new homes in
Burnham-On-Sea have this week been given the go-ahead by Sedgemoor
District Council despite a dozen objections from nearby residents.
The application is for nine dwellings on land to the rear of 24
Golf Links Road.More...

Drama as 4x4 smashes into wallExclusive: THIS was the incredible scene after a 4x4 truck
careered off the A38 in Brent Knoll this week and slammed into
a commercial property, sending bricks flying and ending up wedged
in a huge hole in the wall. Police were called to West Country
Motorhomes at 10pm on Tuesday.More...

BARB's Xmas open weekend
THRERE might not be as much snow as last year, but Father Christmas
will be the special guest at Burnham-On-Sea's rescue station this
Saturday and Sunday (December 17th and 18th) when the charity
holds a festive open weekend. The BARB station will be open to
all.More...

Brean golf course to expand
BREAN Golf Club's course is set to be expanded by an extra four
holes next year. Mild winter weather during recent weeks has enabled
work on constructing the holes to get underway on land next to
Brean Leisure Park and the new holes are on schedule to open next
summer.More...

Cancer support group launched
A NEW support group for breast cancer sufferers, family and their
friends has launched in Burnham-On-Sea this month. The first meeting
of the Burnham Breast Cancer Support Group was held in the Somerset
and Dorset pub's upstairs room - with further monthly meetings
planned.More...

Santa heads to Apex grotto
FATHER Christmas will be calling in at Highbridge's Apex Wildlife
Park this Saturday (December 17th) to make an appearance at a
special grotto. The Friends of Apex Park has transformed the park's
information office into a colourful grotto in readiness for Santa's
visit.More...

Anger over planned bus cutsExclusive: CASH-strapped Somerset County Council has angered
bus users in Burnham and Highbridge this week by announcing that
two 'crucial' services in the towns may soon be axed. As part
of a raft of financial cutbacks under consideration by the council,
the popular 113 and 21 services could be cut back.More...

RNLI boss visits lifeboat station
THE RNLI's Chief Executive has made a brief visit to Burnham-On-Sea
lifeboat station this week during a tour of stations across the
country. Paul Boissier, head of the nationwide charity, was given
a conducted tour of Burnham-On-Sea lifeboat station in Pier Street.More...

Light Up A Life service tonight
BURNHAM-On-Sea's annual Light Up A Life service will be held in
the town's St Andrew's Church this evening (Tuesday). The traditional
service allows churchgoers to celebrate the life of loved ones
and is being organised by local charity St Margaret's Hospice.More...

30 years ago today: 1981 storm
IT is exactly 30 years today (Tuesday) since Burnham-On-Sea suffered
severe flooding and millions of pounds of damage following a major
winter storm. The events of December 13th, 1981 are still very
clear in the memories of many residents - and Burnham-On-Sea.com
today takes a special look back at some of the photos and stories
from that day.More...

Solar energy farm approvedExclusive: A
NEW solar energy farm is to be built on farmland next to Brean
Down, it has been announced this week. Sedgemoor District Council
has approved a planning application for a solar photovoltaic array
featuring 178 solar panel modules at Brean Down Farm.More...

Spider's web causes fire alert!A SPIDER'S web is believed to have
caused an unusual call-out for Burnham-On-Sea firefighters on
Monday (December 12th). One fire crew rushed to a property in
The Grove at 4.25pm after its fire alarm sounded. It is thought
a spider's web on a sensor caused it.More...

Burnham man at X-Factor final
A BURNHAM-On-Sea resident was among the 10,000 strong audience
at Sunday's final of ITV1's X-Factor. Stephen Cleavely,
21, travelled to Wembley Arena to watch the drama unfold as Little
Mix beat fellow finalist Marcus Collins to take home the crown.More...

EU debate comes to our area
THE debate over Prime Minister David Cameron's decision to opt
out of the new EU treaty will be coming to the Burnham-On-Sea
area next month. Sir Graham Watson, Member of European Parliament
for the South West, will be visiting the area on January 14th.More...

Sarah is named 'green hero'
A BURNHAM-On-Sea woman has been named as one of Britain's eleven
'Green Heroes' by EDF Energy this week. Sarah Milner Simonds has
been selected by the power firm in recognition of her efforts
to reduce her carbon footprint and encourage green living in Burnham.More...

Town
braced for storms
WEATHER forecasters have issued a warning of severe gales and
heavy rain sweeping through the Burnham-On-Sea area over the next
few hours. The Met Office has issued a 'yellow alert' regarding
the "potentially disruptive" winds gusting over 60mph
and heavy rain through Monday night and into Tuesday.
More...

Early morning crash in town
POLICE are investigating a crash which occurred in Burnham-On-Sea
during the early hours of Sunday morning (December 11th). Officers
were called to Rosewood Avenue at 2.47am after reports that a
yellow MG had slammed into a garden wall.
Police are investigating. More...

ITV's Daybreak visits Burnham
BURNHAM-On-Sea was in the national spotlight this morning (Monday)
when breakfast TV programme Daybreak broadcast live from the town.
Millions of viewers watched reporter Nick Dixon interview Trinity
Close residents about their Christmas lights display.
More...

Musical lights display switched on
A UNIQUE Christmas display of more than 25,000 lights whose sequence
is determined by the beat of festive music has been switched on
in Burnham-On-Sea. Keith and Jane Mitchell lit up their impressive
display on the outside of their Winchester Road home.
More...

£250 raised for roof repair fund
HUNDREDS of pounds was raised towards vital repairs for Burnham-On-Sea's
youth centre roof on Sunday (December 11th) when a fundraising
Christmas bazaar was held. A number of stalls selling a wide range
of merchandise were set up at the BAY Centre in Cassis Close.
More...

Paramedic
returns from war zone
A BURNHAM-On-Sea paramedic has returned from war-torn Afghanistan
where he has been training hospital staff in emergency medicine
and the use of life-saving equipment. Nich Woolf, 58, has been
working with staff in a hospital at Mazar i Sharif, scene of a
recent suicide bombing. More...

Horse
rider air-lifted from beach
A WOMAN was air-lifted to hospital from Berrow beach this morning
(Sunday) after suffering suspected back injuries when she was
thrown from her horse. Two people - a man and a woman - were hurt
when both their horses bolted after being startled while being
ridden along the sands. More...

Xmas
tree festival underway
A TWO-week Christmas tree festival is underway in Burnham-On-Sea,
with more than a dozen sparkling trees on display. A lighting-up
ceremony was held on Saturday evening (December 10th), as pictured
here, in St Andrew's Church where the tree festival is now open.
More...

Alan praised for 25 years' work
RETIRING Burnham-On-Sea Scouts Chairman Alan Matthews was thanked
for his 25 years of work during a special presentation on Saturday
(December 10th). Alan was presented with a set of engraved glasses
by Burnham's Mayor, Michael Clarke, during
a ceremony. More...

Town
carol singers raise £93
A MORNING of carol singing in Burnham-On-Sea raised over £90
for local good causes on Satursday (December 10th). Burnham Lions
organised the event outside the Victoria Hotel, besides the town's
official Christmas tree, with the support of Lions Brass Youth
Band. More...

Bazaar
for roof appeal today
A FUNDRAISING Christmas bazaar will be held in Burnham-On-Sea's
youth centre today (Sunday, December 11th) to help raise funds
for its vital roof repairs. Sunday's day-long event will be held
at the BAY Centre, which is based in Cassis Close, between 2-5pm.
All are welcome. More...

Mayor visits artists' show
BURNHAM'S Mayor and Mayoress were among the large number of visitors
who attended a Christmas Art and Craft Market which was held on
Saturday (December 10th) by members of Highbridge and Burnham
Artists (HABA). The event saw a wide range of work on show.
More...

Severe
weather alert issued
WEATHER forecasters have issued a warning of severe gales and
heavy rain sweeping across the south west, including the Burnham-On-Sea
area, over the next couple of days. The Met Office has issued
a 'yellow alert' regarding the predicted winds of up to 70mph.
More...

Marine
Cove is officially opened
BURNHAM-On-Sea's newly-refurbished Marine Cove gardens were officially
opened on Saturday (December 10th) during a special ceremony.
Despite wet weather, a crowd of over 150 people attended the grand
opening, following the completion of a £360,000 four-year
project to refurbish the gardens. More...

In
Photos: School's Rag Week fun!
COLOURFUL costumes of all shapes and sizes went on show when fun-loving
pupils at Highbridge's King Alfred School took part in their annual
Rag Week this week. A 'wear what you want day' was held at the
school throughout Friday (December 9th), as pictured here.
More...

Cove
Gardens set to open
BURNHAM-On-Sea's new-look Marine Cove gardens are to be officially
opened today (Saturday, December 10th) during a special ceremony.
The Friends of Marine Cove is holding an afternoon of celebrations
from 3pm to mark the completion of the project. More...

Town
Xmas art market todayHIGHBRIDGE
and Burnham Artists will hold their Christmas Art and Craft Market
today (Saturday, December 10th). The event will see a wide range
of work by local artists on show and available to buy at Burnham-On-Sea's
Community Centre in Berrow Road. the event is open to all. More...

Prince
thanks town's M5 crews
BURNHAM-On-Sea's fire station officer was among the emergency
personnel praised by Prince Edward for their response to November's
tragic M5 accident during a special visit to Somerset today (Friday,
December 9th). Police, fire, ambulance and highways crews worked
tirelessly to rescue people.
More...

Olympic
torch bearers confirmed
SEVERAL residents in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week been
officially named as torch bearers for next year's London Olympic
Games. Burnham charity runner Jason Vickers, who has raised more
than £8,000 for charity over the past seven years, will
be one of the 8,000 torchbearers. More...

Christmas
Tree Festival to open
A CHRISTMAS tree festival is to open in Burnham-On-Sea tomorrow
(Saturday, December 10th) when a dozen sparkling trees will go
on display for a fortnight. St Andrew's Church is holding the
festival and life-size crib scene every day until Christmas Eve.
More...

Carnival
club starts charity tourTHE
carnival season is over until next year, but that's not stopped
kind-hearted members of Burnham's Hillview Carnival Club in building
this illuminated cart to transport Santa around the town to raise
cash for charity. The club's members have begun a 15-day tour
of Burnham and Highbridge. More...

Sanders
poppy sales over £2k
VISITORS to Brent Knoll's Sanders Garden World have recently helped
to raise £2,366.98 for the Royal British Legion. The cash
was ccollected during the sale of the charitys poppies at
the garden centre from October 31st until November 11th
in run-up to Rembrance Day. More...

Will
path avoid need for pylons?
CAMPAIGNERS have proposed a new long distance walking and cycle
path as an innovative way of transmitting electrical power from
Hinkley Point to Avonmouth - thereby avoiding the need for huge
new pylons. Instead of building a long line of 160ft tall pylons
or digging a trench, the imaginative plan would see the cables
laid at ground level. More...

Warning
over computer fraudExclusive: BURNHAM-On-Sea Police have this week warned
computer users in the town to be on their guard after a resident
was seemingly targeted by fraudsters. Inspector Roger Tolley from
Burnham Police says an anonymous telephone caller demanded money
from a 61-year-old resident. More...

Masons
give swim club a boost
BURNHAM-On-Sea's Disabled Swimming Club was handed a £1,000
boost on Wednesday (December 7th). Somerset Masonic Charities
Committee, represented by Peter Hodder, the Provincial Almoner
for Somerset, presented the donation to the group
at the Berrow Road pool. More...

Council
objects to Lidl billboardExclusive:
TOWN councillors have raised an objection over plans by supermarket
Lidl to introduce a new advertisement billboard outside its Burnham-On-Sea
store. Lidl in Oxford Street has applied for planning permission
to introduce a six metre wide billboard. More...

Date
set for Scout leader's trial
A FORMER Burnham-On-Sea scout leader is to stand trial next month
accused of committing a string of sex offences. David Burland
denies 33 charges which include indecent assault, sexual activity
with a child, indecency and exposure. His
trial is to begin during late January. More...

In
photos: 63 enjoy Xmas meal
DOZENS of pensioners from across the Burnham-On-Sea area were
treated to a full Christmas meal with all the trimmings by the
town's Rotary Club on Wednesday (December 7th). More than 60 people
from the Burnham area enjoyed an evening of festive food and entertainment.
More...

Christmas
bazaar this Sunday
A FUNDRAISING Christmas bazaar will be held in Burnham-On-Sea's
youth centre this Sunday (December 11th) to help raise funds for
its vital roof repairs. Sunday's day-long event will be held at
the Burnham Area Youth (BAY) Centre in Cassis Close between 2-5pm
when all will be welcome. More...

Xmas
art market this SaturdayHIGHBRIDGE
and Burnham Artists will hold their Christmas Art and Craft Market
this Saturday (December 10th). The day-long event will see a wide
range of work by local artists available at affordable prices
at Burnham Community Centre in Berrow Road. More...

Karate
club celebrates again!
TWO members of Burnham and Highbridge Karate Club are celebrating
after winning gold and bronze medals during a top regional tournament.
Becky and Josh Proctor competed in the Western Karate Union invitational
event in Hutton Moor, Weston, on Sunday.
More...

Objections
over 9 new homesExclusive:
CONTROVERSIAL plans to build nine new homes in Burnham-On-Sea's
Golf Links Road have been recommended for approval this week by
Sedgemoor District Council's planning officer despite a dozen
objections from residents and the town's MP Tessa Munt. More...

Parking
charges frozen for yearExclusive: PARKING
charges will not rise in Burnham-On-Sea or Highbridge next year,
it has been confirmed this week. Town councillors have this week
welcomed the decision by Sedgemoor District Council to freeze
its parking charges for a period of 12 months. More...

Busy
year at Princess plannedExclusive: A BUSY
programme of events is to be held at Burnham's Princess Theatre
during the first quarter of 2012, it has been announced this week.
Over 60 members of The Friends of The Princess gathered for a
Christmas function where the schedule was unveiled. More...

Town's
Xmas fair raises £700MORE than £700 was raised for a Highbridge
church's funds when supporters flocked to its Christmas fair at
the weekend. Dozens of people attended the popular event in St
John's Church Hall, where festive food, gifts and decorations
went on sale. The event also included a visit by Santa. More...

Pair's
50 years of work praisedA BURNHAM-On-Sea couple's half a century of involvement
with Moose International was marked this week with a special presentation.
Peter and Joy Shannon were both handed certificates to mark their
50 years of involvement during the Burnham Moose lodge's Christmas
party on Monday. More...

Factory
evacuated in gas scareExclusive: STAFF at
a Highbridge factory were evacuated on Tuesday evening (December
6th) following a suspected gas leak. Two fire crews from Burnham-On-Sea
and Bridgwater were called to Isleport Foods, as pictured, after
staff reported a strong smell of gas inside the building in Bolton
Close. More...

Pavements
parkers targetedExclusive: POLICE
have stepped up their patrols against motorists parking their
cars illegally in part of Burnham-On-Sea after this blind resident
was forced to walk in the road to negotiate her way around a car
blocking the pavement. Officers have increased their patrols.
More...

Council
approves free mugsExclusive: Contentious plans by the Town
Council to give every primary schoolchild in Burnham-On-Sea and
Highbridge a free commemorative mug to mark next year's Royal
Jubilee have been given the go-ahead this week, despite concerns
over the cost from some councillors. More...

£16k
boost from leisure parkBREAN Leisure Park has raised more than £16,000
for local charities in the past year. The park's owners, Richard
and Bridget House, this week handed over the money to over a dozen
good causes following fundraising events during the busy summer
season. More...

Movember
crews raise £600MEMBERS of Burnham-On-Sea Coastguard and the town's
rescue hovercraft charity BARB have raised hundreds of pounds
for a prostate cancer charity by taking part in a moustache-growing
fundraiser. The crewmembers were among the many thousands of fundraisers.
More...

Warning
over illegal vodkaDRINKERS in the Burnham-On-Sea area have this week
been warned to avoid an illegal variety of vodka containing an
industrial solvent that could be harmful to health. Somerset Trading
Standards officers are warning shops and residents to look out
for Drop Vodka. More...

Crash
biker remains 'serious'A MOTORCYCLIST who was rushed to hospital after
an accident on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea on Friday (December
2nd) continues to be in a serious condition, police said today.
The B3140 into Burnham from the M5 roundabout was closed for three
hours. More...

20,000
light display turned on!
FATHER Christmas made an appearance when a Burnham-On-Sea resident
switched on his spectacular display of thousands of Christmas
lights for an 11th year on Sunday evening (December 4th). Mike
Perrin from Wilde Close has decorated his home for charity. More...

Double
rainbow over Burnham
THIS double rainbow brought a splash of colour to the skies above
rain-soaked Burnham-On-Sea on Sunday (December 4th). Burnham-On-Sea.com
reader Rob Edgar took this photo of the weather phenomom in Burnham's
Pier Street shortly after a heavy storm in the afternoon.
More...

Concern
over 95 new homesExclusive: RESIDENTS in Highbridge have this week voiced
concern over a developer's new plans to build 95 new homes on
the site of a boat yard next to the River Brue. Property Link
has applied for outline planning permission to construct eighty
five 2, 3 and 4 bedroom houses plus ten 1-bedroom flats. More...

Rotarians
spring into action
ROADSIDES in Burnham-On-Sea are set to burst into colour next
Spring after hundreds of bulbs were planted on Sunday (December
4th). Four huge sackfuls of daffodil bulbs were buried by volunteers
from the Rotary Club along the verges on the Frank Foley Parkway
and Queen's Drive. More...

In
photos: Lions youth concert
MORE than 30 local children performed festive songs and music
at a special Christmas concert in Burnham-On-Sea's Princess Theatre
on Saturday (December 3rd). Youngsters from Burnham Dreamscheme,
Lions Brass and the Siobhan Johnson Singers took part in the festive-themed
concert.
More...

Celebrity
chef in East Huntspill
CELEBRITY chef Lesley Waters and her sister visited East Huntspill
on Saturday (December 3rd) to give cooking demonstrations at a
new housing development in the village. The TV chef visited Bellway's
Church Meadow development, where she provided cookery classes.
More...

In
photos: Berrow Xmas FayreCHRISTMAS was on the minds of dozens of gift hunters
who flocked to Berrows festive market and craft fayre on
Sunday morning (4th December). Despite wet weather outside, the
event drew a good-sized crowd to Berrow Village Hall, where 20
stalls were set-up. More...

15p
Xmas post service starts
HUNTSPILL and Highbridge Scout Group has this week launched its
popular low-cost Christmas card delivery service, which runs until
Friday 16th December. This service has been provided for many
years now and is one of the group's main fundraising events of
the year. More...

Boxing
champ visits town boutsMEMBERS of a Highbridge boxing club welcomed a
British champion to their club on Saturday night (December 3rd).
Lee Haskins, a professional boxer, has fought in the Flyweight,
Super Flyweight and Bantamweight divisions and is currently super
flyweight champion. More...

Club
calls foul over dog messExclusive: MEMBERS of a youth football team
in Burnham-On-Sea have this week urged dog owners to take more
responsibility for their pets after repeated problems with mess
on their pitch. Every week before Burnham United Junior Football
Club Under 8s play, the coaches have to spend 30 minutes clearing
up mess from their pitch, which is located next to Cassis Close.
More...

Berrow
Xmas fayre todayBERROW'S Christmas Market and Craft Fayre will
be held on Sunday (4th December) between 10am and 1pm. Organisers
say more than 20 stalls will be selling a wide range of Christmas
presents in Berrow Village Hall in aid of the Village Hall refurbishment
project. More...

Report
drink drivers, urge policePOLICE have this week encouraged members of the
public in the Burnham-On-Sea area to report drink driving offenders
if they know they are getting behind the wheel while under the
influence. The appeal comes as police launch their Christmas drink
driving campaign. More...

Wind
gives beach sport a lift!
THE sport of kite buggying seems to be 'taking off' at Brean,
with this week's high winds giving enthusiasts a real challenge.
Around 20 of the sport's members have braved high winds to take
part in a series of endurance competitions and, as these photos
show, the gusty conditions proved a challenge! More...

Busy
day of Christmas events
A BUSY day of Christmas events is being held in the Burnham-On-Sea
area throughout today (Saturday, December 3rd). The events include
Christmas fayres, a festive fundraising concert, a table top sale
and several appearances by the famous Santa Claus! More...

Christmas
concert tonightA FEW remaining tickets are still available for
a Christmas concert to be performed by local youngsters in Burnham-On-Sea's
Princess Theatre on Saturday night (December 3rd). The 'Children
Singing For Children' event is being held by Burnham-On-Sea Lions
Club to raise money for charity. More...

Biker
injured in car accidentA motorcyclist has been rushed to hospital with
serious injuries after an accident on the outskirts of Burnham-On-Sea
today (Friday, December 2nd). The B3140 into Burnham from the
M5 motorway roundabout was closed for three hours after the collision
between a motorbike and a car. More...

Conservatives
win by-electionTHE Conservative's John Denbee won a County Council
by-election in the Burnham-On-Sea area on Thursday (December 1st).
Residents across the Brent division went to the polls on Thursday
to choose a replacement for long-serving Tory County Councillor
Alan Ham, who died in September. More...

Blue
Peter in town for switch-on
A FILM crew from the BBC's Blue Peter children's programme
joined more than 400 people watching the official switch-on of
a huge fundraising Christmas lights display in Burnham-On-Sea's
Trinity Close on Thursday evening (December 1st). The dazzling
display was illuminated at the event. More...

Xmas
shopping night tonightOVER 40 businesses across Burnham-On-Sea are holding
a late night shopping evening tonight (Friday, December 2nd) during
the run-up to Christmas in a bid to encourage more people to do
their festive shopping in the town. Friday's event will run from
5pm to 9pm. More...

Extra
patrols for Xmas season
POLICE in Burnham and Highbridge are cracking down on crime in
the run-up to Christmas. There will be increased high visibility
foot patrols by PCSOs and police officers, in addition to plain
clothes patrols. They want to ensure trouble is kept to a minimum
over the festive period. More...

Police
seize cannabis set-upExclusive: POLICE
swooped on a property in Burnham-On-Sea this morning (Thursday,
December 1st), seizing a suspected cannabis cultivation set-up.
Officers executed a search warrant at a property in Briar Close,
where plants and other equipment were found. More...

Anger
at 'knock down' saleExclusive: A district councillor has this
week expressed his disgust at the NHS's sale of a former health
centre in Burnham-On-Sea for a 'knock-down price'. Belmont House,
a mental health care centre in Technical Street until August this
year, has been sold by NHS Somerset for just £170,000 to
a local businessman. More...

Voters
going to polls todayVOTERS in the Burnham-On-Sea area will be going
to the polls today (Thursday, December 1st) to vote in a county
council by-election. Electors in the Brent division have two choices
- Conservative councillor John Denbee or Liberal Democrat councilllor
Helen Groves. More...

12,000
sign Hinkley petitionA PETITION signed by more than 12,000 people opposed
to the planned expansion of Hinkley Point power station near Burnham-On-Sea
is to be handed in at Downing Street next week. The Stop Hinkley
group has collected 12,750 signatures and will be taking them
to London. More...